Friends and relatives of Henry Vincent bring birthday tributes to the street where he was fatally stabbed.
Photograph: Gareth Fuller/PA

Relatives of a burglar who was fatally stabbed by a pensioner in south-east London have laid a fresh floral tribute on the street where he died to mark what would have been his birthday.

About 20 women placed balloons, cards and flowers close to the spot where Henry Vincent collapsed after he was fatally injured on 4 April at the home of the 78-year-old Richard Osborn-Brooks in South Park Crescent, Hither Green.

Tensions between the street’s residents and Vincent’s family have been high since his death as floral tributes to the man, who would have been 38 on Sunday, have been repeatedly torn down by people who are angry that he is being remembered in such a way.

The group, escorted by five police officers, attached tributes to street signs and lampposts to mark what would have been Vincent’s birthday. Police stopped the group from stapling banners and balloons to the garden fences of homeowners on the street.

A 37-year-old woman, who asked not to be named, said: “We’re here because it’s his birthday. We just want to lay flowers, we don’t want to cause any violence. We’re not all criminals. We don’t all do wrong.”

When asked how Vincent should be remembered, another woman said: “We all loved him.”

The women refused to comment on reports that Vincent would have a £100,000 funeral that will pass the Osborn-Brooks home on the street where he died.

The couple are reportedly living in a safe house and intend to sell their property.

“This is a tragedy for the family who have lost a loved one. It is also a tragedy for the homeowner forced to take the action he did,” the Metropolitan police deputy commissioner, Sir Craig Mackey, said. “It would have been preferable if the pavement had remained clear and the local area had not become the focus of disruption, which then needed police resources to manage.

“We want those laying flowers to respect the local people and the impact on them. Those opposed to the flowers should act responsibly, respectfully and reasonably. As the borough commander said yesterday, we don’t want anyone – the local people or those visiting the scene – to feel intimidated.”

Police are still appealing for information about Billy Jeeves, alleged to have been Vincent’s accomplice during the burglary. He remains at large.